McCosker's Flasher Wrasse (Paracheilinus Mccoskeri)

Species Name : Paracheilinus Mccoskeri

Care Level : Easy

Temperament : Peaceful

Color : Blue, Orange, Red, Yellow

Diet : Carnivore

Reef Compatible : Yes

Water Conditions : sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4

Max. Size : 3"

Origin : Indian Ocean

Family : Labridae

Minimum Tank Size : 55 gallons

The McCosker's Flasher Wrasse (Paracheilinus Mccoskeri) is an attractive reef-safe wrasse sure to be the star of your aquarium. This hardy wrasse species adapts well to established home aquariums, making it a beautiful and active addition.

The vibrantly colored male McCosker's Flasher Wrasse is predominantly red/orange with blue, horizontal stripes that complement its yellow stomach. The orange dorsal fin is accented with red, yellow, and blue and features a single elongated ray. A gorgeous, red band across the orange anal fin creates an impressive and bold color palette. The female coloration and overall appearance is more subdued. The females also do not feature the large dorsal and anal fins. The colors of an adult male intensifies during courtship and he may flare or "flash" his fins to attract females. Bright coloration, showy finnage and ease of adjusting to captivity are all major plusses for this peaceful, shoaling fish.

McCosker's Flasher Wrasse requires a 55 gallon (or larger) aquarium with a tight-fitting lid, as it can jump out. Most wrasses appreciate a sandy substrate. Give them a tank with plenty of light, however, include some shaded areas as well as places to hide. 

If you are going to keep a small group (which is recommended), add the females first; otherwise add them all at the same time. McCosker's flasher wrasses are easily bullied, so be sure to keep them with peaceful tankmates that will not outcompete them for food. It is advised to keep only one McCosker's Flasher Wrasse per tank to curb against territorial aggression. Don’t put them in with larger or more predatory breeds, or even larger wrasse.

As they adapt well to aquariums they also adapt well to new diets, and can switch from life to frozen food. The McCosker's Flasher Wrasse diet should include vitamin enriched frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty foods along with a high quality marine flake and marine pellet food. They like their food very small and will eat small meals several times a day.

Size: Small: 1" to 1-3/4" Medium: 1-3/4" to 2-1/2" Large: 2-1/2" to 3"